NW NEBRASKA FIRES
DAWES-SIOUX FIRE FUND TOPS $71,000
By DOUBLE Q COUNTRY RADIO NEWS
Aug 11, 2006 - 6:37:00 PM

Representatives of the Dawes – Sioux Fire Fund from both Dawes and Sioux Counties have come together to review losses suffered by fire victims, the needs in each area, and to determine distribution of available resources. Individuals have been identified in each county that need immediate assistance.

Distributions of hay and other in-kind donations that have been collected at the Crawford Livestock Market will begin as early as Monday, August 14, 2006.

A system for allocating monetary donations is also being developed. A portion of the funds is going to those individuals that suffered major personal property losses, and to volunteer fire departments. Funds will also be used to assist with replacement of fence materials such as steel or wood posts, wire or water well supply needs. Representatives are attempting to obtain more accurate information regarding actual losses suffered in remote areas, and once that has been completed, additional allocations from the fund can be made.

“We’re attempting to ensure there’s a fair distribution of funds and resources. Several factors have to be taken into consideration as we move into the allocation and distribution phase of this process”, said Don Blausey, spokesperson for the Dawes – Sioux Fire Fund.

Blausey added, “As of today, a total of $71,152 has been deposited in the fund. Considering the large area affected by the fires and the losses suffered, this won’t go very far. People need to realize that this is possibly one of the worst natural disasters this state has ever seen. Many of the losses in rural areas include uninsured property. When we look at what people need right now, and what they will need a year from now, we know the resources we have aren’t going to be enough”.

Donations of hay or other livestock feed and fence materials can be delivered to the Crawford Livestock Market, West Beach Street, in Crawford. Anyone wishing to donate in-kind gifts are asked to call in advance. To contact the Crawford Livestock Market, please call toll-free 866-665-2220 or (308) 665-2220.

Cash donations can be delivered to any financial institution in Dawes or Sioux Counties, or mailed to the Dawes – Sioux Fire Fund, P.O. Box 1125, Chadron, Nebraska, 69337.

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